The do's and don'ts for your kitty loos.
Did you know that the basic rule for how many litter boxes you should have is one extra litter box location than you have cats?
That means if you have two cats, you should have at least three litter boxes, all in different locations! This is because most cats prefer to urinate in one box and defecate in another.
Don't place the litter boxes in the same area as your cats food and water - you wouldn't want to eat dinner in the bathroom either!
If you have more than one cat, don't put the litter boxes in cut off locations that can lead to your cat feeling trapped, with only one way out. They'll avoid using the box if they feel like they might be ambushed. Place the litter boxes in an open area where there's more than one escape route (up is also an escape route for cats!).
Most cats prefer clumping scoopable litter over clay litter. Brands of scoopable litter differ in texture and you can experiment a bit to find the texture or brand that you and your cat like. Once you find a litter you both like, avoid changing brands because sudden change in litter can be disruptive to your cats.
If you’re using clay litter, you must empty, clean, and refill the litter boxes daily.
If you’re using scoopable litter, scoop each litter box at least once daily. Add fresh litter as needed to replace the soiled litter that was removed.
Empty and thoroughly clean litter boxes at least every 1-2 months. Use soap and water and be sure to remove all traces of litter and soil, and then disinfect the box with a pet friendly disinfectant (such as F10).
Replace litter boxes about every two years, or more frequently if the surfaces become deeply scratched or stained.
Did you know that the basic rule for how many litter boxes you should have is one extra litter box location than you have cats?
That means if you have two cats, you should have at least three litter boxes, all in different locations! This is because most cats prefer to urinate in one box and defecate in another.
Don't place the litter boxes in the same area as your cats food and water - you wouldn't want to eat dinner in the bathroom either!
If you have more than one cat, don't put the litter boxes in cut off locations that can lead to your cat feeling trapped, with only one way out. They'll avoid using the box if they feel like they might be ambushed. Place the litter boxes in an open area where there's more than one escape route (up is also an escape route for cats!).
Most cats prefer clumping scoopable litter over clay litter. Brands of scoopable litter differ in texture and you can experiment a bit to find the texture or brand that you and your cat like. Once you find a litter you both like, avoid changing brands because sudden change in litter can be disruptive to your cats.
If you’re using clay litter, you must empty, clean, and refill the litter boxes daily.
If you’re using scoopable litter, scoop each litter box at least once daily. Add fresh litter as needed to replace the soiled litter that was removed.
Empty and thoroughly clean litter boxes at least every 1-2 months. Use soap and water and be sure to remove all traces of litter and soil, and then disinfect the box with a pet friendly disinfectant (such as F10).
Replace litter boxes about every two years, or more frequently if the surfaces become deeply scratched or stained.
- December 13, 2021
- Kate Phillips